Face-off with the Panthers to fight pediatric cancer

Sunrise Sports & Entertainment recently announced the Florida Panthers Foundation will host its first signature event of the 2013-14 season. The "Ford Face-Off Gala and Casino Night," presented by Ultimate Software, will take place at the BB&T Center Oct. 23 from 6 to 10 p.m.

All Florida Panthers players, coaches and staff will be on hand for the event featuring a cocktail hour in Club RED followed by casino-style games on the floor of the arena provided by E Productions, one-of-a-kind silent and live auctions along with live music, food and beverages throughout the evening. Events by Vento Designs and Dalsimer & Atlas are working together to create the event.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Florida Panthers Foundation and its fight against pediatric cancer.

"The foundation is extremely excited to host our first premier event for the 2013-14 Panthers season," said Cliff Viner, Panthers general partner and foundation president. "With the combination of the 'Ford Face-Off Gala and Casino Night' presented by Ultimate Software, it is certainly going to be a spectacular night full of fun and entertainment for our players, staff and fans alike, and it's all for such a great cause."

"Our entire team is honored to attend the 'Ford Face-Off Gala & Casino Night' presented by Ultimate Software and support the Panthers Foundation in the fight against pediatric cancer," said defenseman Erik Gudbranson. "On a personal level, having seen a family member go through this struggle, I am humbled to represent my teammates and the Panthers organization as we strive to support the South Florida community in the fight against this terrible disease."

The mission of the Florida Panthers Foundation is to build a better future for the children of South Florida. Through philanthropic partnerships, grants, donations and community outreach programs, the foundation maintains a focus on children's health, fitness, education and cultural needs.

Individual tickets are available for $150 and can be purchased at http://www.floridapanthersfoundation.org.•